Qualcomm announces next-gen Snapdragon chipset and devices

Qualcomm announced Sunday that it will be introducing a next-generation chipset to join the Snapdragon platform. The new Snapdragon QSD8650A chipset will be built on a 45nm process, providing the typical benefits, including faster processing and less power consumption. The chips are targeting smartphones and smartbooks (netbooks packing 3G) and are scheduled for sampling by the end of 2009.

The Snapdragon QSD8650A runs a 1.3GHz processor, compared to the current Snapdragon silicon which runs at 1GHz. This reportedly delivers a 30% higher performance rating, enhanced multimedia as well as 2D and 3D graphics. The new chipset also uses up to 30% less dynamic power than previous-generation Snapdragon chips and only consumes 10 milliwatts of power while in standby.

The company also stated that the new chipsets will be showcased in devices made by some of its partners such as Asus, Compal, Foxconn, High Tech Computer, Inventec, Toshiba, and Winstron. Qualcomm plans to hold a press conference today to bring to light these new devices and to discuss its smartbook strategy.